winter/spring 2021 | vol. 33, no. 1 magazine

M A G A Z I N EWINTER/SPRING 2021 | Vol. 33, No. 1

Dear Friends,

As we celebrated Founders’ Day just a few weeks ago, we recognized the incredible blessings God has given to Wisconsin Lutheran College over the past 48 years. From a humble

beginning with barely two dozen students in 1973 to an enrollment of 1,100 Christian servant leaders, we thank our Lord. However, we are not done growing yet and believe that God has big plans for WLC now and in the future.

This academic year, we witnessed a 32% increase in freshman enrollment, the largest growth among private colleges in the state of Wisconsin. Even today, we have set records on the number of prospective students visiting the campus for fall 2021 enrollment. God continues to out-dream us all!

While we celebrate the blessings of the past, we set our sights on how WLC will continue to thrive in the future. A new strategic plan is underway that will leverage the college’s strengths of Christian servant leadership, academic excellence, and a vibrant campus community. As we embrace our mission, we also seek innovation and sustainable growth so that more students can fully embrace their roles as Christian servant leaders, bringing their whole selves to their work, their families, and the world. Everything we do is a steadfast reflection of our mission so that our students graduate from WLC equipped to embrace their vocational calling with a sense of confidence. We want our students to live out their lives with purpose and make a meaningful difference.

Yes, uncertainty and challenges exist as they always have for the nearly five decades that WLC has flourished. We will not accomplish our goal for growth without help from others. Please share this magazine and share the amazing stories of how Warriors continue to thrive in a pandemic. Thousands of young people and adults would also succeed at WLC, but many do not know we exist. Spread the news about WLC with your family, friends, co-workers, and your entire social media network.

Together we can make a bright future for our world and WLC. Thank you for your prayers and support as we prepare Christian servant leaders for our communities, nation, and church.

Blessings,

Dr. Daniel W. JohnsonPresident, Wisconsin Lutheran College

From the PresidentMISSION STATEMENTWisconsin Lutheran College, affiliated with the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod, is a Lutheran liberal arts college for Christian men and women. The college is committed to providing quality teaching, scholarship, and service that are rooted in Holy Scripture; promoting the spiritual growth of students, faculty, and staff; and preparing students for lives of Christian leadership.

PRESIDENTDr. Daniel W. Johnson

VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVANCEMENTRichard Mannisto ’94

WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERSMelanie BuellesbachAdam Heinzen ’06Lisa Leffel ’98Jonathan Lorenzen ’11Curtis Wech ’09, MA ’16Jeff Wilson

DESIGNERAmy Kuether ’96

Wisconsin Lutheran College Magazine is published for and distributed free of charge to students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends of the college. For more articles and photos, visit WLC Magazine Online at magazine.wlc.edu.

All letters, news, corrections, and comments should be directed to WLC’s Office of Marketing & Communication, 8800 W. Bluemound Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, [email protected].

If you prefer to receive WLC Magazine electronically or need to update your address, please email [email protected]. To receive regular enews updates from the college, please share your email address at [email protected].

2 | Winter/Spring 2021

Wisconsin Lutheran College | 3

2 From the President

4 Campus News

8 Value of Christian Higher Education

10 In the Footsteps of St. Paul

15 Three Generations of WLC Volleyball

17 Athletics News

18 Fine Arts News

20 Changing Lives through Scholarships

22 Celebrating 5 Years of WLC Christmas

23 Believe in the Green

I N T H I S I S S U E

Winter/Spring 2021 | Vol. 33, No. 1

On the cover: The new Warriors men's volleyball team began intercollegiate competition in February. WLC now offers 19 NCAA Division III sports. Photo by Jeff Wilson.

Note that some photos in this publication were taken prior to the pandemic.


CAMPUS NEWS

NEWDual-Degree ProgramA new partnership between Wisconsin Lutheran College and Rush University in Chicago provides students with an opportunity to obtain both a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology or Sport and Exercise Science from WLC and a Master of Science in Respiratory Care degree in just five years. The program at Rush University offers advanced practice preparation in multiple areas, including critical care, neonatal care, and cardiopulmonary diagnostics. Students will obtain hands-on experience in this rapidly growing field at top-tier academic medical centers in Chicago.

Honors Program ProjectElla Kramer, a December 2020 graduate, created three stunning, all-original dresses last semester for her Honors Program thesis project, titled “Textile Texts.” Each dress represented a female character found within a “Great Book” studied in the program. Kramer chose to depict Penelope from Homer’s Odyssey, Grete from Kafka’s The Metamorphosis, and Antigone from the eponymous play by Sophocles. “Antigone stood out because of the agency she displays, that is, how she creates the space in her story to make her own decisions,” shared Kramer.

Her project began with researching the three literary women in order to analyze the level of character development attributed to them by their male authors. Kramer then interpreted her findings by sketching out the basic design of each dress. “Then … I sewed a lot!” she said. “I wanted to hone my skills of working without pre-made patterns, so all of the designs were completely original.”

In mid-November, Kramer presented a lecture in the Center for Arts and Performance in which she explained her project and showcased the magnificent dresses. Kramer’s project was funded by a generous grant from the Christian Women’s Leadership Circle.


When it comes to reaching the next generation

of programmers, the WLC Computer Science Club has cracked the “code” for success. Last November, the club hosted a virtual programming workshop with sixth and seventh graders at Creation Village Preparatory School in Celebration, Florida. The club, which is entirely student led, met earlier in the semester to brainstorm ways they could get kids excited about computer science. “We decided to plan a virtual event with middle school students to introduce them to programming and to demonstrate the extensiveness of computer science,” said club president Mandy Abernathy ’21. “We wanted to show them that it’s more than just ‘coding.’”

Abernathy enlisted the help of her nephews Cayden and Logan – sons of WLC alumni Jason ’06 and Marissa (Abernathy)

Draeger ’07 – and their teacher, Matthew Zahorec, to arrange the workshop. The event began with members of the Computer Science Club asking the students to list everything they could think of that uses a computer, the goal being to illustrate the countless ways in which programming impacts the world.

The students then broke off into groups and paired up with club members to partake in a hands-on programming activity. “We wanted to introduce the kids to programming concepts in a fun way,” explained Abernathy. The activity consisted of a computer game in which students utilized the Python programming language to move a cartoon turtle through a maze.

Abernathy’s nephew Logan loved the workshop experience: “I really liked learning about computer science and enjoyed the activity.

Solving the maze was my favorite part, and it also involved math, which is my favorite class.”

The Computer Science Club members deemed the event to be a great success and feel it is important to offer similar opportunities in the future: “I was glad to be involved because teaching programming is important, and getting kids started at a young age can help develop skills like teamwork and problem solving,” reflected club member Christian Lee ’22.

Abernathy stressed another reason to begin reaching out to students early on: “I never had anything like this when I was in middle school. Females are underrepresented in the computer science field, and I feel we’re helping to change that with events like this workshop.”

COMPUTER SCIENCE CLUB

OUTREACH

Mandy Abernathy ’21Christian Lee ’22


Students got their first look at WLC’s new Anatomage Table

this semester in the anatomy lab. The college obtained this state-of-the-art resource thanks to a generous gift from alumna Sharon A. Schoeneck ’89.

“Nothing compares to cadaver dissection, but the Anatomage Table prepares students for dissection by allowing them to see internal anatomy before cutting, plan better dissections, and examine pathologies that are not present in all cadavers,” said Prof. Courtney Moll ’09, assistant lecturer of biology. “We can now go beyond the ‘think twice,

cut once’ strategy because the table provides the opportunity to practice dissections, remove and replace organs, and review clinical applications.”

The Anatomage Table offers a virtual library of human cadavers, as well as CT scans and MRI examples for nuclear medicine technology majors to study, plus animal images for pre-vet students and those in WLC’s Vertebrate Zoology course. While the Anatomage Table will never replace human donors, it is certainly an amazing study tool that students and faculty will be able to use for years to come.

“It’s an instrument to show all our students how God designed us and how we truly are ‘fearfully and wonderfully made,’” said Moll. Psalm 139:13-14 is the theme for all of the human anatomy courses at WLC.

"I am very excited and thankful for the opportunity to use the Anatomage Table, said junior Nicole Buiter. “The extensive tools it provides will allow us to study cadaver dissection from a new perspective. The Anatomage Table will allow me to visualize what I am learning in class in a way that wasn’t previously available.”

Nursing major Samantha Stiemke ’22 and biology major Nicole Buiter ’22 work with the Anatomage Table for the first time under the direction of Prof. Courtney Moll ’09.

ANATOMAGE TABLE

Students living in WLC’s residence halls let their creativity run wild last semester. The college’s annual Trick or Treat in the Halls celebration was canceled due to the pandemic, so students sought an alternative source of fun. What started as putting notes up on windows between the floors in Fischer Hall erupted into an all-out creativity war among the colleges’ three residence halls. These conversations turned into a fun competition and provided artistic masterpieces for the WLC community to enjoy. The ammunition of choice? Sticky notes.

Students were given a week to complete an image made entirely out of sticky notes. The submissions were creative, featuring characters like Buddy the Elf from the popular movie Elf and Perry the Platypus from the Disney Channel’s Phineas and Ferb cartoon series, and Baby Yoda from Disney’s The Mandalorian. The Resident Council hosted the competition and gave prizes to the winning floors.

BABY YODA Aspire Hall Winner and Fan Favorite

STARRY NIGHTFischer Hall Winner

SUNSETStimac Hall Winner

On November 5, WLC’s English Department offered a virtual talk by Dr. Larry Watson (pictured) on his novel Let Him Go, which was adapted into a major motion picture starring Kevin

Costner and Diane Lane. The film was released November 6.

Dr. Rebecca Parker Fedewa ’01, associate professor of English, arranged the lecture for her creative writing course: “It was a privilege to have Prof. Watson share his insights with students, colleagues, and alumni. His self-deprecating manner makes him approachable to writers of all levels of experience, and he was wonderfully receptive to questions about the writing process, his novel Let Him Go, and the recent film adaptation.”

Student Patricia Waraczynski ’22 gave positive feedback after the event: "I truly enjoyed our visit with Prof. Watson. It was certainly thrilling to be able to speak with the author of several well-known novels, but I was most touched by the humility and kindness Prof. Watson showed to our group of students. Not only did he give us valuable writing advice and allow us to dissect the nuts and bolts of his work, but he acted as if our opinions came from professional literary critics. It was an unforgettable evening.”

Watson even followed up with Parker Fedewa to let her know he enjoyed visiting with the students. He added: “I miss teaching, so it was good to return to the classroom, even virtually and even for only an hour. The intelligence and insight of the students’ questions and comments really impressed me.”

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the value of Christian Higher Education

The research varies, but most approximate that 50-70% of

Christian teenagers disengage with their faith as they progress through college. Much of this slow fade away from the Church is due to college freshmen leaving home unprepared for campus life at public or secular colleges, and

the lack of worship and fellowship opportunities at these institutions.

In fact, according to the research of political scientists Robert P. Putnam and David E. Campbell, “Young Americans are dropping out of religion at an alarming rate of five to six times the historical

rate (30-40% have no religion today, as opposed to 5-10% a generation ago).” This isn’t a surprise as only one-third of college faculty nationwide describe themselves as regular churchgoers, and Christian viewpoints are openly mocked in many college classrooms.


At Wisconsin Lutheran College, we’re humbled to be an aberration among these colleges and within these statistics. We help our students learn the skills they’ll need to build their career, and live their values while doing it. We believe that nurturing the whole person – mind, body, and spirit – is what education is truly about. Helping students connect with themselves, their faith, and the world at large drives our work.

There are many valuable characteristics of WLC, to be sure. Yet, we don’t hesitate to state that our greatest value-add is this: We were founded by Christian men and women who desired to launch a college characterized by faithfulness to the Scriptures and the Lutheran Confessions, and we remain rooted in Jesus’ truths – providing an academic and Christian faith experience that prepares our students to see their potential and purpose in their everyday life and work.

WLC’s commitment to Christian higher education provides unique value to our students:

PURPOSEStudents can get an education virtually anywhere. But an education that also helps them discover their purpose? That isn’t

as common. A Christian college like ours does more than prepare young people for a career. We encourage deep introspection that helps them see themselves and their place in the world in new, powerful ways. Our hope for students is they have a meaningful college experience that enables their growth academically and spiritually so they can confidently live their purpose.

COMMUNITYA strong community depends on the people within it trusting, respecting, and caring for each other in moments of agreement – and especially in moments of challenge. At WLC we strive to cultivate just such an environment. We welcome those with curious minds who are willing to ask big questions about their faith, life, and work. Our faculty and staff are accessible and involved, caring deeply for our students and serving as Christian mentors. It’s one more way we help our students become confident, compassionate leaders, and lifelong learners.

JESUSIt’s normal for young people – even those with loving, supportive families and friends – to feel alone, or unsure about their path in life. Those feelings have only intensified in recent years as we all grapple

with a rapidly changing world and daily uncertainties. One constant amidst the unknown is Jesus. Students at WLC are grounded in Christ’s wisdom and encouraged to follow His example as a servant leader. With His example, the world begins to look different, their path appears clearer, and changing the world for the better feels more possible.

Everything we do is a steadfast reflection of our mission. And it’s why our students graduate from WLC with a sense of confidence, ready to live out their lives with purpose and make a meaningful difference – as bold Christian servant leaders.

Interested in experiencing this for yourself? Private, in-person campus tours can be arranged Monday-Friday during most weeks. Upon visit confirmation, we’ll provide further details about the steps we are taking to provide a healthy visit experience for you and your family. Or schedule an online visit to engage in a personalized virtual tour of our campus with an admissions counselor and get answers to your questions.

Visit wlc.edu/visit to learn more.


IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF ST. PAULResearch Trips Lead To Changes in Biblical MapsBy Lisa Leffel ’98 anatolianroads.org


In 2008, Rev. Dr. Glen Thompson, then serving as professor of history at Wisconsin Lutheran College, had an idea: “I wanted to provide WLC humanities

students with the opportunity to experience overseas travel and learn about archeology.” At the same time, Thompson wanted to get back to his early study of the missionary journeys of St. Paul.

Together with New Testament scholar Dr. Mark Wilson, who Thompson had met at a professional conference, a project was developed at WLC to more accurately determine and map the specific roads St. Paul had traveled. “The opportunity for WLC students to travel to the biblical world and experience its material culture firsthand is a significant learning experience for them,” noted Wilson.

Shannon (Turner) Li ’12, a member of the first research trip, went on to earn her doctorate in medieval history from The Ohio State University. She pointed to this trip as one of a number of transformative college experiences: “WLC provided me with a solid foundation for earning my degree at OSU. The professors were all very supportive, and they encouraged critical thinking and independent research, which are essential skills for pursuing secondary education.”

While St. Paul’s journeys have been studied for almost 2000 years, the maps used to depict them are still not without problems. Bible atlases often just draw straight

lines from one city center to the next. These do not account for the topography of the land or take into account what roads actually existed in the first century. Thompson and Wilson’s plan was quite simple. They would go on site, use GPS to record the precise location of still-existing ancient road segments and bridges from the Roman period, map these, and then connect the dots. In this way a much more accurate and realistic map of the ancient road system could be produced. That map could then be used to plot St. Paul’s travel options more accurately. Dr. Gerald (Jerry) Fischer, a member of WLC Board of Regents, and his wife, Kay, were intrigued by the project and committed to financially supporting it – and taking part in it!

"One of the best moments was when I was standing on the remains of a Roman bridge in the middle of a field and realized that Paul likely walked on these very stones.”

- Jacob Werre ‘15

2017

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Students who were selected to participate were provided with background reading to familiarize themselves with the trip’s destinations. Each was also assigned a specific location to research in preparation for sharing with the team when visiting that site. Tutku Tours of Izmir, Turkey, provided a local guide and driver for each of the four two-week trips that have taken place. At the conclusion of the tour, students could opt to submit a research paper to obtain additional credit for the study experience.

Thompson and Wilson plan each trip, based on the biblical accounts and on previous discoveries of

roads, bridges, milestones, funerary monuments, cisterns, and other indications for the existence of an ancient road. These have survived mostly in rural areas. Starting with already known surviving traces, the team then seeks to find new traces in the area. Local farmers are interviewed; local archaeologists are consulted. As traces are found, they are measured, photographed, sketched, and GPS coordinates are recorded by the students. Road width helps the group to determine if a road was a primary or secondary artery. Findings from all the trips are shared on the project website, anatolianroads.org. “I think one unique aspect of these trips is that they are off the

The map as it appeared in the Lexham Geographic Commentary, based on the work of Eckhard Schnabel. The orange line shows Paul’s second journey and incorporates the work of the WLC research team.


beaten path. One of the best moments was when I was standing on the remains of a Roman bridge in the middle of a field and realized that Paul likely walked on these very stones,” said Jacob Werre ’15, who went on the second trip.

Li added: “The Roman Roads Tour was an amazing experience. It was my first time traveling abroad, and it felt surreal to walk the roads and touch the artifacts used by ancient Romans and early Christians. Seeing historical sites in person and studying material culture enhances your understanding of the written sources, and this trip inspired future study trips I made to Ireland and Germany.”

The first trip was in June 2010 and followed Paul’s first journey in what is modern day Turkey. Li and fellow WLC students Jon Jossart ’11 and Paul Young accompanied the Thompsons, Wilsons, and Fischers. The goal for the first trip was to investigate the route of Paul in Galatia, especially his route from Perga to Antioch (Acts 13:13-14), the route between Antioch and Iconium (Acts 13:51), and the road system around Lystra and Derbe (Acts 14:6-7). The most exciting discoveries were of a road section northwest of the city of Perge, and, alongside it, an unpublished Greek and Latin inscription from the first-century.

The second research trip was in June 2013. This time, Werre joined the Thompsons, Wilsons, Fischers, and one student each from the Asian Lutheran Seminary, Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, and Martin Luther College. The team explored the disputed route of Paul’s second missionary journey from Galatia to Troas (Acts 16:6-8), especially the missing roads between Phrygia and the Aegean coast and Paul’s route in the Troad. This trip resulted in a groundbreaking article published in the Tyndale Bulletin in 2017.

In May 2017, a third trip had two separate goals. First, the group re-created Paul’s 30-mile walk from Troas to Assos (Acts 20:13). Secondly, they revisited an area from the second trip that required further examination. Accompanying the Thompsons, Fischers, and Wilsons from WLC were assistant professor of history Sheena Finnigan ’06 and her husband, Ross ’06, along with Marta Stahlfeld ’16, Jenna Ehlinger ’20, and Sam Doebler ’20 from WLC. The team successfully gathered new evidence for Paul’s route to Assos and found further evidence of the ancient road system.

2017


A fourth trip in the summer of 2018 concentrated on Paul’s travels in Italy. It investigated the route taken when Paul was sent for trial to Rome – his arrival at Puteoli in Italy (Acts 28:14) and his route along the famous Appian Way to Rome (Acts 28:14-16).

Thanks to the Fischers’ support, Thompson and Wilson have not only made the research findings available online, but they have shared the results in numerous journals and scholarly conferences. In this way the research has begun changing the maps of Paul’s journeys. For example, Prof. Eckhard Schnabel in the recently published Lexham Geographic Commentary on Acts Through Revelation illustrated the path of Paul’s second journey along the new roads documented by the WLC team (see illustration on page 12). It is likely that the maps in the back of our Bibles will eventually follow suit. “I knew that what we were doing was impactful scholarly research, but I wasn’t sure what impact it would have. I’m looking forward to seeing the changes in the historical maps,” Werre said.

As soon as the pandemic subsides and it is safe to travel again, a fifth trip will explore the areas in Greece where Paul travelled in his second and third journeys – between Neapolis, Philippi, and Thessalonica (Acts 16:11, 17:1). “Paul’s route to and from Beroea are of special interest,” said Thompson, “as they have never been properly explored” (Acts 17:10,14).

Thompson served at WLC from 2002 to 2011, when he moved to Hong Kong to join the faculty of Asia Lutheran Seminary. At that time, the Roman Roads project expanded to become a joint venture for WLC and Asia Lutheran Seminary. Thompson retired this past summer and has returned to Milwaukee. He looks forward to continuing the project with his former student and successor at WLC, Prof. Finnigan, and in working with WLC students on the website and on future trips. He is also working with Wilson on a book about Paul’s journey to Rome as a prisoner.

Werre encourages the next generation of WLC students to participate: “I was blessed to go on multiple research trips, and they expand your horizons. Traveling opens you up to new people, ideas, cultures, and more that will benefit you for years to come.”

GENERATIONS of Warriors Volleyball

2017

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When Clarence Jenkins was named head coach of the Warriors women’s volleyball program in

1988, little did he know that he was beginning an on-court family legacy that still exists more than three decades later.

A 2019 inductee into the Wisconsin Lutheran College Athletics Hall of Fame, Jenkins remains the winningest coach in program history having led the Warriors to 95 victories, including a near perfect 40-2 conference mark during his five seasons (1988-1992) at the helm.

“God immediately blessed me with some very talented players,” admitted Jenkins. “Good athletes always want to be part of a winning program. I would tell players I was recruiting that we simply didn’t lose.”

That mantra certainly proved to be true during a string of four straight Lake Michigan Conference championships, including the college’s first-ever league title in 1989 and first district championship in 1992. With that success, the team’s reputation grew. In fact, it was Jenkins’ volleyball program that secured the first-ever national ranking for Wisconsin Lutheran College athletics.

Four years into his coaching tenure, Jenkins’ daughter Laura joined the Warriors as a freshman. “I always knew that I was going to WLC,” said Laura (Jenkins) Goba ’95. “The first year I played we didn’t even have a gym. Our warm-up consisted of jogging down to Wisconsin Lutheran High School.”

Despite any facility challenges, Goba experienced unprecedented team success in her three seasons with the Warriors, winning a trio of conference championships as well as a district title. In 1991, she and her teammates put together a 26-win season, still the most victories in a season to date.

“I expected a lot from Laura, especially as a freshman, so that the other players wouldn’t think I was playing favorites,” Jenkins reflected. “I’d like to think that I

GENERATIONS of Warriors Volleyball

CLARENCEJENKINS

LAURAGOBA

ALLYGOBA

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Coach Clarence Jenkins | 1989

By Adam Heinzen ’06

2017


eased up a bit on her after that. She was a very good server and back row player. She, like most first-year players, had played all the way around in high school. Most incoming players had to learn more specific roles. Laura accepted that and was a real contributor to the team’s success.”

So how difficult was it to be a collegiate coach and a father of one of the players at the same time? Well, for Jenkins it wasn’t as challenging as it may seem from the outside: “I never really felt I was a ‘dad’ coaching. I always felt I was coaching a team, so it wasn’t hard coaching a daughter from that standpoint. I yelled a lot, but I distributed my tirades equally.”

As for being on the daughter/athlete end of the relationship, Goba admits it wasn’t always smooth. “Has anyone ever thought it was easy to be the coach’s kid? He was hard on me, and I’m sure that I was hard on him.” But the former Warrior admitted: “Challenges make us stronger and build character. He was a very good coach and well-liked by my teammates…most of the time!”

Now, fast-forward to 2019 when the former coach and former athlete found themselves seated in the

Recreation Complex watching a third generation of the family compete. This time, it’s Ally Goba on the court wearing a Warriors uniform. The daughter of Laura and granddaughter of Clarence said becoming a Warrior was always a possibility: “My family history definitely had an impact on me choosing WLC. I was always encouraged by my mom and grandpa to play volleyball here, and I loved how close WLC was to home [Mukwonago, Wisconsin] so that they would be able to watch me play in person.”

When Ally took to the court in her rookie season, she most certainly didn’t let them down. She became just the fourth freshman since 2000 to earn First Team All-Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference honors. Ally led the Warriors in digs and service aces, both of which put her in the top 10 of league rankings in just her first year on the floor.

The legacy that her mother and grandfather began now rests on Ally’s shoulders, but that doesn’t intimidate her one bit. She relishes the opportunity: “It means a lot that I get to continue in the footsteps that my mom and grandpa made when the program was so fresh and small. I am excited to leave my own footprints for future teams and possibly family members, too.”

And while Ally, now a sophomore, competes, her mother appreciates the work that goes into being a collegiate athlete. “I love going back onto the WLC campus and watching my daughter play. They have a really great program, and she also loves her teammates and has great coaches.”

As for the Hall of Fame coach and patriarch of this volleyball family, Clarence Jenkins is more than happy to sit back and let his granddaughter set her own course. “It’s nice, but I wouldn’t want to put too much pressure on her to continue playing or to become a coach to live up to anyone else’s expectations.”

Laura (Jenkins) Goba | #24 | 1991

Ally Goba | #2 | 2019

MYKAEL IGNASZAK ’21Cudahy, WI Football Human Social Services

Which WLC faculty or staff member has made the greatest impact on you?

Suzanne Otto, a counselor in the Student Success Center, has always been there for me. She also prepared me to be a successful student-athlete.

Which WLC class would you like to take again? I would retake any theology class, because I was always interested in learning about the Bible but was never exposed to it in my past.

ALYSSA CHARRON ’21Appleton, WIWomen’s VolleyballSecondary Education and Broadfield Social Sciences

Which WLC faculty or staff member has made the greatest impact on you? Jenilee Voss, my head coach, has taught me leadership and the importance of being on a team. She has modeled servant leadership and continues to be a positive Christian role model in my life.

Which WLC class would you like to take again? I would retake American Popular Music. Prof. Jeremy Zima ’07 [assistant professor of music] makes the history of music come to life, and there was never a dull class.

CHRISTINA BIFFERT ’21Lomira, WIWomen’s Cross Country/Track & Field Music Education

What is one piece of advice you would give to your freshman self? Don't look

back on what could have happened or what you could have done differently. Just put your trust in the Lord; that’s all that matters.

Which WLC faculty or staff member has made the greatest impact on you? Honestly, I would not be able to pick just one. All of the faculty and staff members who I have had the pleasure of working with have helped me grow in my faith, leadership, and education.

RANDY JOHNSON JR. ’21Milwaukee, WIBasketballPsychology

What is one piece of advice you would give to your freshman self? To be yourself

and not to try to be something you're not. Being authentic is the key to success and to put God before yourself and everything else.

Which WLC faculty or staff member has made the greatest impact on you? If it weren’t for Prof. Laura Reinke [adjunct instructor of psychology], I wouldn't be a psychology major. She helped me find what I was passionate about and could apply to future job opportunities. I truly am appreciative of all she has done for me.

WLC Athletics continues its Take 10 series by featuring senior student-athletes. Read more at WLCSports.com.

SENIOR SPOTLIGHTS

WARRIORS RETURN TO ACTIONThe Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference (NACC) approved a plan in December for the conference to resume competition. In February, the Warriors saw the following teams compete in the NACC: men’s and women’s basketball, men’s and women’s tennis, men’s volleyball, and men’s and women’s track & field. Eventually, all 19 Division III sports fielded by WLC are scheduled see action during the spring semester. Visit WLCSports.com for updated schedules, digital gameday programs, and spectator policies.



The WLC Theatre Department had to get creative last fall due to the pandemic. “We had a very

strong feeling that live, indoor theater was not going to be happening by then,” said Prof. Simon Provan, assistant professor of theatre. “We wanted to make sure that we had something in place for our students that wouldn’t get canceled, so we knew it had to be something that could be streamed online.”

After much research, the department ended up discovering – and producing – selected works from a collection of new short plays and monologues titled Alone, Together. From November 12 to 15, nearly 350 viewers tuned in via YouTube to watch the WLC Theatre Department’s production of the show – among the better-attended plays in recent history. The series was commissioned by the University of California, Santa Barbara’s LAUNCH PAD theatre program and included works from 24 distinguished playwrights – all written during the COVID-19 pandemic. Alone, Together was designed to be presented in an entirely virtual format, with many of the scenes mimicking the now ubiquitous video conference environment.

Capturing a play by means of recorded video, while still maintaining the authenticity a live theatre experience, proved to be a delicate balancing act for student Mandi DeVos ’21, who served as cinematographer for Alone, Together – her senior capstone project. When recording and editing each play and monologue, DeVos wondered, “How can we still preserve the theater elements and make this feel like a theater event for our actors and the audience?” In many instances, this meant resisting the urge to

capture a perfect and polished scene and letting the camera roll for as long as possible.

The cast and crew of 20 students masterfully carried out 12 of the series’ 39 pieces, which portray the all-too-familiar situations and emotions of life during the pandemic, such as mental health struggles, coping during uncertain times, and longing for a connection with other human beings.

The short plays were presented in styles ranging from comedic to very serious, with some falling in-between. Students took in stride the challenges of acting out emotionally heavy concepts, along with the new experience of having no live audience. “The students had to deal with some deep emotional character work, which they did with great gusto,” Provan – director of the production – said of the actors. “The truthfulness these young performers brought to their work was awe-inspiring and something which the entire WLC campus can be proud of.”

High praise came not only from within WLC circles. Playwright James Still, who penned two of the Alone, Together scenes presented by WLC, had this to say after watching their production: “There is such a range of emotion pulsing through those pieces, lots of sensibilities and voices from many wonderful writers, and I was especially moved to see young people take on those stories with courage and purpose.” He went on to compliment the show’s technical production: “The look and feeling of your digital presentation was professional, smart, and consistent throughout. Enormous congratulations to you [Provan] and the students, and everyone involved.”


Ensembles PerformIn late November, three WLC instrumental ensembles took the Schwan Concert Hall stage for a virtual concert featuring a diverse array of musical styles and genres. The first group to perform was the Chamber Ensemble (pictured below) consisting of four violins, a cello, and a contrabass, directed by Dr. Alexander Mandl.

The stage was then reset with an impressive amalgam of drums and idiophones for the Percussion Ensemble’s portion of the concert. The final group of the evening was the Flute Choir, whose member Laura Sanford ’21 said: “While the live audience element of performance was lost in this virtual event, the performance was genuinely rewarding, and I was very proud to see the members of my section show off the product of the hard work they put into practice and sectionals.”

Also in November, the Flute Choir provided musical offerings in worship at Emanuel Lutheran Church in New London, Wisconsin. The flautists – directed by Prof. Dan Hubert, assistant professor of music – played pre- and post-service music and accompanied several of the hymns. Ensemble member Brittany LaCourt ’22 said: “I was honored to share my gifts with fellow Christians at Emanuel. This trip reminded me why I enjoy playing the flute and sharing music with others, especially during difficult times where joyful sounds are needed.”

New Choir CDIn December, the Wisconsin Lutheran Choir and Chamber Choir released their newest album titled Shout the Glad Tidings, featuring a collection of sacred Christmas carols performed by the two ensembles. The selections were recorded live in the Schwan Concert Hall during the 2018 and 2019 Christmas Festival Concerts. “The album reflects the beauty, wonder, and joy of the Christmas season,” said Dr. James Nowack, professor of music and concert conductor. CDs are available for purchase for $10 online at wlc.edu/cd or by calling the Box Office at 414.443.8802. A selection of other WLC choir and concert band CDs is also available for purchase.


Dolores “Dee” Rudolph was a fascinating woman. From avid

bowler and accomplished artist to tireless volunteer and exceptional golfer, she was never one to shy away from taking on a new challenge. Even more remarkable, however, was her heart for Jesus and her selfless desire to help others – qualities that brought about a passion to help Christian servant leaders at Wisconsin Lutheran College.

Dee was a Milwaukee native and lifelong member of Atonement Lutheran Church, where she could always be found helping and encouraging fellow Christians. She was also a civil servant and active community volunteer; she served the City of Milwaukee as a pension counselor for more than 40 years,

then volunteered every week at a local nonprofit resale shop upon retirement.

Dee became acquainted with WLC through its Guest Artist Series in the Center for Arts and Performance; she was a longtime season ticket holder and

subsequently became a faithful donor to the college. She deeply valued Christian higher education, even though her own college education was put on hold for years due to family circumstances. “Dee was a proponent of higher education throughout her whole life, in spite of her own aspirations being thwarted early on,” said longtime friend Mary Gizewski. “Not until later in life would she see those aspirations come to fruition when she attended night school to attain her degree.”

As she grew older, Dee felt inspired to make a lasting impact for Christian servant leaders at WLC. And as a faithful manager of the gifts God had given her, she was blessed to be in a position to make it happen. Working with

a WLC development officer, she decided to begin an endowed scholarship – a permanent fund invested so that the interest income will generate an annual award for one or more students in perpetuity. As one who had a keen interest in medicine – she consistently read medical books and journals – and as a proficient golfer and softball and tennis player, Dee wanted her scholarship to support a student with similar passions.

Dee’s timing was perfect; WLC had launched a sport and exercise science major just a few years prior. The program prepares students for careers in such areas as athletic training, community health and fitness instruction, physical and occupational therapy, and strength and conditioning. Dee found sport and exercise science to be a perfect fit for her interests and decided to designate the scholarship for students within that major who have financial need. With a very generous initial gift from Dee, the Dolores E. Rudolph Endowed Scholarship was officially born.

Sport and exercise science major Joshua Helton ’18 was the inaugural recipient of the award.

through ScholarshipsHow one donor’s generosity is paying dividends for WLC students, now and for years to come

By Jonathan Lorenzen ’11

Changing LivesChanging Lives

Josh grew up in a struggling neighborhood of Houston, Texas, in a home where his mother was the sole provider for the family. According to sport and exercise science program head Prof. Rachel Kuehl ’96, Josh was a natural choice for the award: “I think it is very fitting that Josh was the first recipient of the scholarship as he is the first member of his family to graduate from college. The award came at a critical point of financial need in his life when he otherwise might have had to leave WLC. Dee’s scholarship is a testimony to her dedication to the students within the sport and exercise science program.”

Josh, a lifelong athlete, chose to attend WLC because it allowed him the opportunity to play football while pursuing a sport and exercise science degree. After graduating, he joined the Army National Guard, where he currently serves as a platoon leader in Temple, Texas. Now at a rank of second lieutenant, Josh knows his education and leadership experience gained from WLC helped him excel in his role with the Guard: “The coaches and professors did wonders for my leadership abilities.”

Dee went home to Heaven in February 2019, leaving behind a permanent legacy of selflessly serving others. Her estate included an additional large gift to WLC, which will now allow her endowed scholarship to generate annual awards for at least three students.

“Dee provided me with the help I needed to finish my degree. I do not take for granted that God allowed our paths to cross, and her assistance meant the world to me,” said Helton. “She truly changed my life.”

You, too, can help change lives. Support for scholarships – whether on an annual basis, in a large gift to establish an endowment fund, or through a legacy planned gift – will make an incredible difference for our students. To learn more about how you can invest in Christian servant leaders, please contact Rich Mannisto ’94, Vice President of Advancement, at 414.443.8788 or [email protected].


Josh Helton '18 | Second Lieutenant | Army National Guard


WLC Christmas5 YEARS OF

CELEBRATING

An idea generated five years ago within a subcommittee of the Alumni Board, the 5 Days

of WLC Christmas has become a tradition that alumni look forward to each year. “Christmas as a student was one of the best times of the year, but it’s absolutely incredible as an alum,” tweeted Andrew Flegel ’17. Brian Hopkins ’16 added: “The most wonderful time of the year! @WLCAlumni Christmas!”

The purpose of the 5 Days of WLC Christmas is to provide WLC branded gifts to alumni in exchange for the completion of important tasks to help further the mission of the college. Over the years, these alumni tasks have included confirming or updating contact information, making donations to assist WLC students, sharing testimonials about their WLC experience with prospective students, joining WLC career networking groups, registering for college events, following the WLC alumni social media accounts, and recommending future Warriors.

“Each year the involvement has grown,” said Lisa Leffel ’98, director of alumni relations. “We were thrilled to have around 200 alums participate the first year. In 2020, there were nearly 800 participants!”

It takes nearly year-round planning to make the 5 Days of WLC Christmas become a reality in early December. The first objective is to determine the tasks to complete and the gifts to send. Next, it is on to the promotion that includes a postcard, daily emails, and many social media posts throughout the five days. After each day is completed, participation is tallied.

At the end of the five days, the alumni relations staff orders all the gifts based on the number of alums who completed each assigned tasks. Boxes and boxes of branded WLC items soon arrive on campus and the staff gets to work assembling all the packages and taking them to the USPS for shipping.

“It’s a quick turnaround to get the gifts into alumni mailboxes around Christmas,” added Denise Terrell ’99, alumni relations coordinator. “We’ve mailed some really fun items over the years – some of the most popular have been WLC Yetis, pizza cutters, and T-shirts. It is great to see alums showing off their WLC pride in their homes, workplaces, and communities with the branded gifts they receive during the 5 Days of WLC Christmas.”

WLC has seen tremendous growth in alumni giving as a result of the 5 Days of WLC Christmas, and 2020 was the biggest increase to date! This past year, 352 alumni made a donation during those five days; 229 were new donors this fiscal year and 36 made their first ever gift to WLC.

Leffel shared: “God has truly blessed our alumni relations efforts with the 5 Days of WLC Christmas. We have found a fun way to increase donations, maintain accurate contact information, assist with the college’s admissions and career networking efforts, grow our social media following, and expand attendance at events.”

Planning is already underway for 2021!

WLC Christmas

CHAMPION PARTNER “We’re thrilled to partner with universities all across the country – like Wisconsin Lutheran College – which share many of our same values of harnessing creativity to drive best-in-class innovation. Together, we’re bringing athletes and fans an incredible experience on campus that’s rooted in deep consumer insights and reinvents how they engage with our brands.”

Jeff Terek ’98, Key Account Manager - WorkplacePepsiCo, Inc. | Pepsi Beverages North America

PLATINUM PARTNER “Chick-fil-A chooses to participate in the Believe in the Green program because we believe in the platform of opportunity athletics provide for students. We support what the experience of being on a team teaches the next generation of leaders as they prepare for their future vocations and callings.”

Jim Frasier, OwnerChick-fil-A | 124th & Capitol, Brookfield, WI

SILVER PARTNER “Radisson Hotel Milwaukee West has been a partner in WLC’s Believe in the Green program since its inception. We are honored to partner with a Christian college, which in turn gives so much back to the community. From a business perspective, WLC ‘gives back’ to its BIG partners as well. In our case, being a hotel with Jimmy’s Island Grill restaurant attached, we see business from the college in guest rooms, banquets, and diners at Jimmy’s. It truly is a partnership with WLC. Through the program we’ve met other partners who have become clients and vendors. It is a wonderful opportunity for businesses to increase their networking circle, while being part of a growing Christian-based college in our area.”

Rose Murack, General ManagerRadisson Hotel Milwaukee West | Wauwatosa, WI

SUPPORT OUR PARTNERS!

Wisconsin Lutheran College’s athletics sponsorship initiative, called Believe in the Green (BIG), integrates WLC’s partners and sponsors into the Warriors’ game-day experience. We encourage you to support our partners who support WLC. If you or your business is interested in advertising with Wisconsin Lutheran College Athletics and becoming a partner, contact Aaron Sebald at 414.443.8532 or [email protected].

WLC.EDU | 414.443.8800

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” - Romans 12:12 (NIV)

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winter/spring 2021 | vol. 33, no. 1 magazine

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